Passengers can board the direct service at the Tacoma Community College Transit Center and enjoy the ride to the zoo’s front gate. After enjoying the display of more than a half-million lights, simply catch a return trip to TCC.

Both the bus and parking are free, courtesy of CHI Franciscan Health, Pierce Transit and Metro Parks Tacoma.

The express service will feature two of the trolleys used last summer for the Downtown to Defiance route, as well as supplemental service by regular buses on busy weekend nights. Zoolights visitors still have the option to park at the zoo.

“Thanks to this partnership with CHI Franciscan Health and Pierce Transit, Zoolights visitors have another option for getting to experience one of the best holiday displays in the region,” said Shon Sylvia, executive director of Metro Parks Tacoma.

Zoolights visitors can avoid lines at the gate by purchasing discounted tickets online or at any Fred Meyer location, including the store at S. 19th and Mildred, across the street from TCC.